Avenida do Mar (Sea Avenue), Funchal

Sea Avenue is Funchal’s main seafront artery, running for about 4,270 feet along the southern edge of the historic center. Lined with palm trees, gardens, and wide pavements, it links the marina in the west to Admiral Reis Garden and the old town in the east. The avenue in its modern form dates from 1939 but follows the line of the early waterfront road; in the 1980s its name was extended to honor Madeirans who emigrated overseas by sea.

On the shore side, you cross the landscaped People’s Square, a modern waterfront park created on reclaimed land, with lawns, paths, kiosks, and open views of the harbor and cruise ships. On the city side you see a row of important public buildings: the Port Captain’s Office and the regional headquarters of the national guard, followed further along by the Legislative Assembly of Madeira and statues such as the Monument to the Madeiran Emigrant.

If you head west, with the sea on your left, the shore side opens onto Funchal Marina, lined with yachts and tour boats. On the city side you pass the reconstructed Varadouros Gate, recalling the old city walls, and then the fortified Saint Lawrence Palace and other historic facades that overlook the avenue. Near the western end, the road curves by the CR7 Museum, celebrating Cristiano Ronaldo with a bronze statue.